Pardons, paroles, and clemency files, 1845-1847.

ArchivalResource

Alabama. Governor (1845-1847 : Martin). Pardons, paroles, and clemency files, 1845-1847.

Pardons, paroles, and clemency files, 1845-1847.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/80559411

The governor is the chief executive of the state whose function is to administer the laws of the state. One of the activities used to accomplish this function is the pardoning of individuals convicted or fined in all criminal and penal cases, except those of treason and impeachment. This series contains letters, petitions, affidavits, and other supporting legal documents relating to pardons from crimes, parole from sentences, and remission of fines imposed. Most items give details of the crime, and of the criminal's background and family life. The crimes committed include murder, rape, larceny, and gambling. The most prominent case in this series involved a slave named Smith who was owned by Lucius Saffold of Dallas County. Smith was convicted and sentenced to hang for the murder of another slave, Edmund. There are numerous petitions and correspondence requesting a pardon for Smith because (1) the conviction was based on circumstantial evidence, and (2) another slave, who was executed for the murder, exonerated Smith prior to his death. Other prominent cases for which pardons were requested include Charles S. Hawkins of Lowndes County who was convicted for assault with intent to murder Reuben Harrison, and Thomas Hart of Morgan County who was convicted for the murder of James B. Wilhite.

Originals: 0.3 cubic ft., (6 folders).Copies: 1 microfilm reel.

Alabama Department of Archives and History